Dani Olmo applauds Pep Guardiola's decision as he wants to sign his No. 1 rival

The 2024-25 season was unrecognizable for Manchester City under Guardiola, who was forced into a new cycle that left them without titles. City, who had won their first Champions League just two seasons ago, are undergoing a deep change in their squad. Guardiola's team finished the Premier League in third place, although for much of the season, they were outside the top four spots.

The team's European season wasn't any better, with a performance far below the desired level, coming close to being eliminated in the group stage. The quarterfinals brought a matchup against Real Madrid, with the Blancos proving far superior and eliminating the English team. They also couldn't turn their season around in the Club World Cup; they started well but were surprisingly knocked out by Al-Hilal in the quarterfinals.

City has made a significant investment for the current campaign, a sum approaching €300 million to renew their squad. Signings such as Reijnders, Rayan Cherki, Marcus Bettinelli, or Omar Marmoush don't seem to be enough. The club is looking to recover the performance and titles that slipped away last season, while Guardiola is considering one last signing.

Fermín, Pep Guardiola's target

The attacking midfielder from Barça is on the radar of several top European clubs. Before the transfer window closed, there were rumors of a move to the Premier League. Chelsea showed great interest in signing the academy product in the final moments of the window. Ultimately, according to reports, the London club's offer was rejected by Barça for being insufficient.

City would also be interested in adding Fermín to their squad, with Guardiola as his main supporter. The Catalan coach is certain that Fermín possesses all the desired qualities: talent, late runs into the box, and a goal-scoring instinct. Guardiola is looking for a player of his profile, versatile, who can play as an attacking midfielder or as an interior midfielder.

Fermín, performance at Barça

Last season, Fermín played 46 official matches in which he managed to score 8 goals and provide 10 assists. Although Fermín wasn't an undisputed starter in Flick's line-up, the Andalusian became an important piece for the German coach. In several matches, his introduction from the bench changed the games with his ability to assist and score.

The strong competition in Barça's midfield means that Fermín doesn't get all the minutes he would like, as Flick usually opts for Dani Olmo in the starting eleven. Although he is highly valued by the coaching staff, the club's financial situation forces them to listen to offers. Joan Laporta has been clear: Fermín won't leave for less than €70 million. We'll see how far City is willing to go for Fermín. The winter transfer window will be decisive.